This stage deals with the planning of a work. It is perhaps the single most important stage. The inventory of porcelain scraps, trimmings, and shavings from previous work is evaluated to see which parts among them will be combined with parts made special to complete the required material for the visualized work. The nature and amount of material determines the style, size, and design of the final work.
For example, the first task for number 845 in the "Carbon60" style is to make sure enough material is on hand. The work will require 20 hexagon buttons cut from cylinder palettes that will be attached to the surface of a solid white porcelain sphere. After the 20 hexagons have been attached, the 12 pentagon ãnegative spacesä filled with white porcelain. A cylindrical button is then embedded into the center of each pentagon to complete the fabrication. An abundant supply of all required materials must always be readily available. Details follow in Stage 2: Fabrication.
EIGHT STAGES OF THE OCTAHEDRAL PORCELAIN PROCESS Conceptualization Fabrication Equilibridization Sphericalization Sculpting Lid Fitting Drying Firing
PREPARATION Slip Block Palettes Cylinder Palettes Tools Recyclables